In a sharp condemnation on Tuesday, Iran’s ambassador to the United Nations in Geneva described the United States’ recent military strikes against Iran as a “totally stupid decision,” particularly because they occurred while diplomatic negotiations were still underway. Ali Bahreini emphasized that the US action not only undermined ongoing talks but also betrayed the efforts of Gulf countries striving for peaceful resolutions in the region. His remarks highlight the deep frustration in Tehran over what it sees as Washington’s disregard for diplomatic channels.
Bahreini made it clear that Iran harbors no hostility towards its neighboring countries and has consistently sought to maintain peaceful relations within the Gulf. However, he stressed that Iran cannot tolerate the presence of US military bases in the Gulf being used as staging grounds for attacks against Iranian territory. “War was never our chosen path; it was forced upon us,” Bahreini asserted, underscoring Tehran’s position that it has been compelled to defend itself against external aggression rather than initiate conflict.
He further warned that Iran would not hesitate to respond firmly to any acts of hostility. “No one should expect Iran to exercise restraint in the face of aggression,” Bahreini said, adding that Iran’s defensive measures would continue until such provocations cease. This statement reflects Tehran’s determination to protect its sovereignty and regional interests amid escalating tensions.
The backdrop to these developments involves indirect negotiations held on February 26 in Geneva between US and Iranian officials concerning Iran’s nuclear program. These talks, facilitated by Oman, were described as making “significant progress,” with Bahreini himself participating in parts of the discussions. He noted a general sense of optimism among participants, with the US delegation expressing willingness to pursue further dialogue in Vienna later this week.
Despite this hopeful atmosphere, Bahreini accused Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu of influencing US President Donald Trump to abandon diplomacy in favor of military action. The strikes, which began on the preceding Saturday, were characterized by Bahreini as a deliberate sabotage of the negotiation process. “This was an utterly foolish decision,” he said, predicting that both Trump and Netanyahu would come to regret their choice as Iran remains resolute in shaping the course and outcome of the conflict.
He also pointed to the disappointment felt by Iran’s neighbors in the Gulf, many of whom had been actively supporting diplomatic efforts, particularly Oman. “The United States has betrayed all of us,” Bahreini declared, highlighting the regional backlash against Washington’s approach. This sense of betrayal stems from the fact that Gulf states had invested considerable diplomatic capital in fostering dialogue and avoiding escalation.
Addressing Iran’s recent military responses, which targeted countries hosting US bases in the region, Bahreini rejected the characterization of these actions as mere retaliation. Instead, he framed them as legitimate acts of self-defense. “What we are doing cannot simply be labeled as reprisal,” he explained. “Our actions are a necessary form of self-protection against ongoing aggression.” This distinction underscores Tehran’s narrative that its military moves are defensive rather than offensive in nature.
As tensions continue to simmer, the international community watches closely, hoping that renewed diplomatic efforts in Vienna might yet prevent further escalation. However, the recent US strikes have undeniably complicated the path forward, casting a shadow over the fragile progress made in Geneva. Iran’s firm stance and vocal criticism of US policy reflect the deep mistrust that now colors the already complex negotiations surrounding its nuclear ambitions and regional security.
